Category: Marzipan Media

  • What Is Sustainable Web Design?

    What Is Sustainable Web Design?

    TL;DR – What Is Sustainable Web Design?

    Sustainable web design is about building websites that are lighter, faster, more efficient, and more ethical. It goes beyond green hosting to consider everything from page weight and performance to accessibility and digital carbon footprint. Done right, it’s better for your users, your business, and the planet.

    Key Stats: The average website produces 0.5g of CO₂ per page view. With 4.1 billion people online, sustainable design isn’t optional—it’s essential.

    What Is Sustainable Web Design?

    What Is Sustainable Web Design?

    Sustainable web design is the practice of creating websites that minimise environmental impact whilst maximising performance and accessibility. It goes beyond choosing green hosting to encompass every aspect of web development—from code efficiency to content strategy.

    Core Principles of Sustainable Web Design:

    • Reduce data transfer through optimised images, compressed files, and efficient code
    • Prioritise performance with faster loading times that consume less server energy
    • Choose renewable infrastructure via green hosting and efficient content delivery networks
    • Design for longevity with accessible, maintainable code that doesn’t need frequent rebuilds
    • Focus on user needs by eliminating unnecessary features and content

    Why Sustainable Web Design Matters More Than Ever in 2025

    The digital sector now accounts for 3.7% of global carbon emissions—more than the aviation industry. As AI tools proliferate and internet usage grows, this impact is accelerating rapidly.

    The Growing Digital Carbon Crisis

    With over 4.1 billion people online, individual web page requests create a massive cumulative environmental impact. Each “small raindrop” of data transfer builds into a gigantic sea of energy consumption.

    The AI Factor: AI-powered features like chatbots and recommendation engines consume up to 10 times more energy than standard web interactions, according to Bloomberg research. Every AI search query can use as much energy as 10 traditional searches.

    What Makes Websites Unsustainable?

    Faster internet speeds and accessible content creation tools have led to bloated websites. Businesses now load pages with large graphics, videos, and animations to capture shrinking attention spans, whilst adding multiple tracking scripts to monitor visitor behaviour. This bulk dramatically increases page-load times and the energy required to load websites, driving up their carbon footprint.

    Common Website Sustainability Issues:

    • Bloated pages packed with unnecessary scripts, animations, and massive images
    • Auto-playing videos that burn data and slow everything down
    • Overly complex designs that look pretty but frustrate users (and use more power)
    • Cheap hosting that runs on fossil-fuel-powered data centres
    • Content for content’s sake—adding pages because “that’s what SEO needs”

    The 5 Key Ingredients of Sustainable Web Design

    Website carbon emissions directly correlate with page load speed. Slower-loading pages force servers to work harder, consume more energy, and generate more carbon. Faster pages produce fewer emissions.

    1. Lightweight Code That Works Smarter, Not Harder

    Bloated code slows things down and burns more energy. Focus on:

    • Minimising scripts and plugins
    • Cleaning up CSS and JavaScript
    • Using modern frameworks like Astro or Vite for speed-first performance
    • Eliminating unused code and dependencies

    2. Green Hosting With Real Impact

    If your site lives on fossil-fuelled infrastructure, it’s leaving a carbon footprint. Choose green hosts powered by renewables, preferably with local data centres to reduce transmission distance.

    What to Look For:

    • Renewable energy certificates
    • Carbon-neutral or carbon-negative commitments
    • Energy-efficient hardware and cooling systems
    • Transparent sustainability reporting

    3. Performance That Puts People First

    Sustainable equals fast. Optimise for:

    • Image compression (WebP format, lazy loading)
    • Clean UX with no unnecessary detours
    • Core Web Vitals optimisation from day one
    • Efficient caching strategies

    4. Accessibility as Standard

    When you design inclusively, you naturally:

    • Use less flashy, heavy content
    • Follow semantic HTML structure
    • Work better across all devices and connection speeds
    • Create more efficient, maintainable code

    5. Content That Respects Time (and the Planet)

    Sustainable content is:

    • Clear, valuable, and purposeful
    • Structured for both humans and search engines
    • Designed to guide action, not fill space
    • Regularly audited to remove outdated material

    How to Measure Your Website’s Digital Carbon Footprint

    Free Tools to Get Started:

    • Website Carbon Calculator – Quick CO₂ assessment per page view
    • Ecograder – Comprehensive sustainability audit
    • GTmetrix – Performance metrics that correlate with energy use
    • Google PageSpeed Insights – Core Web Vitals analysis

    Key Metrics to Monitor:

    • CO₂ per pageview (aim for under 0.5g)
    • Page weight (under 1MB is ideal)
    • Green hosting status (renewable energy usage)
    • Load speed and performance (under 3 seconds)
    • Largest Contentful Paint (under 2.5 seconds)

    What to Do With the Data:

    • Reduce page size — compress images, trim plugins, eliminate unused code
    • Improve load times — implement lazy loading, use modern image formats
    • Switch to green hosting — migrate to renewable-powered servers
    • Track changes monthly — progress measurement drives improvement

    The Business Case for Sustainable Web Design

    Sustainability isn’t just good for the planet—it’s profitable for business.

    Faster Load Times = Better Conversions

    • Sites loading in 1 second convert 3x better than slow ones
    • 100ms delay can reduce conversions by 7%
    • Users abandon sites that take longer than 3 seconds to load

    Better SEO Rankings

    • Google rewards clean, accessible, mobile-friendly websites
    • Sustainability improvements boost Core Web Vitals scores
    • Faster sites have lower bounce rates and higher engagement

    Increased Trust and Brand Loyalty

    • 81% of consumers prefer sustainable brands
    • 64% say they’d switch providers for better environmental values
    • Younger demographics particularly value corporate responsibility

    Lower Operational Costs

    • Reduced hosting requirements and bandwidth usage
    • Fewer bugs and maintenance issues with cleaner code
    • More efficient development processes
    • Lower long-term technical debt

    A Competitive Edge You Can Talk About

    It’s more than a website. It’s a story of doing better—and people notice.


    We’re proud of our impact and sustainability score for the Marzipan Media website:

    marzipan sustainable web design agency australia

    Real-World Results from Sustainable Web Design

    Wellizen Health Platform

    Results: +310% new users, 134/100 site health score, 40% higher engagement Approach: Optimised images, streamlined code, green hosting migration View Case Study

    Popology Experience Centre

    Results: Fast-loading experiential site with full accessibility and reduced emissions Approach: Modern build tools, efficient animations, sustainable infrastructure View Case Study

    Common Results Across Projects:

    • Page sizes reduced by up to 70%
    • Load times improved by 40-60%
    • Emissions dropped below 0.2g CO₂ per view
    • Users stayed longer and converted more often
    • Maintenance costs reduced by 30%

    Your Action Plan: Getting Started

    Step 1: Audit Your Current Site

    Run your website through these tools:

    Step 2: Identify Quick Wins

    Immediate Actions:

    • Compress and optimise all images
    • Remove unused plugins and scripts
    • Enable browser caching
    • Audit and clean up old content

    Step 3: Plan Your Green Hosting Migration

    Research sustainable hosting providers:

    • Check renewable energy commitments
    • Compare performance and pricing
    • Plan migration timeline
    • Set up monitoring for the transition

    Step 4: Implement Performance Optimisations

    Technical Improvements:

    • Implement lazy loading for images
    • Minify CSS, JavaScript, and HTML
    • Use modern image formats (WebP, AVIF)
    • Optimise database queries

    Step 5: Monitor and Iterate

    • Set up monthly sustainability audits
    • Track performance metrics over time
    • Document improvements and learnings
    • Share results with your team

    Let’s Build a Better Web, Together 🌱

    Sustainable web design isn’t about stripping everything back or sacrificing great design. It’s about making conscious, efficient choices that create high-performing websites without unnecessary waste.

    Whether you’re a startup, non-profit, or enterprise brand, you can lead the way by choosing a digital presence that reflects your values and respects both users and the environment.

    Your website should:

    • Load fast and work brilliantly
    • Be accessible to everyone
    • Run on clean, ethical infrastructure
    • Align with your goals and values
    • Make every interaction count

    The internet isn’t going anywhere—but the way we build it can change for the better. Every sustainable choice you make contributes to a more efficient, accessible, and environmentally responsible web.

    Ready to make your website part of the solution? The more sustainable your site becomes, the more powerful your message grows.

    Ready to let your website shine a little brighter online? 

    Frequently Asked Questions

  • 5 Tips to Smash Your Online Goals in 2025

    5 Tips to Smash Your Online Goals in 2025

    As business owners, it’s crucial to keep up with the latest tools and digital marketing trends to smash your online goals. At Marzian we’re more than just Digital Content Creators, we’re your online success partners ready to make you shine online. so, whether you’re a startup or an SME, here are five tech-driven strategies that can propel your brand online in 2025.

    1. Harness AI for Personalised Marketing

    Artificial Intelligence (AI) is more accessible than ever, and it’s revolutionising how businesses interact with customers. AI tools can analyse your audience’s behaviour, segment them effectively, and create hyper-personalized marketing campaigns. The result? Better engagement, stronger relationships, and higher conversion rates. In 2025, prioritise using AI for smarter, data-driven marketing that resonates with your audience.

    2. Optimise for Voice Search

    With more users turning to voice-activated devices, optimising for voice search is becoming crucial. Unlike traditional text searches, voice searches are more conversational and often longer. Start by identifying natural, longer-tail keywords that your audience might use, and incorporate these into your website content. Also, ensure that your website is mobile-friendly, as voice searches are often made on mobile devices. Think Siri and Alexa and the types of questions you’re firing at them all day long.

    For example, if you’re a digital marketing expert you may want to expand on the phrase to accommodate voice. Phrases such as ‘digital content creator in Sydney’ or ‘online marketing and PPC specialists near me’ could help expand your reach.

    3. Embrace Video Content Across Platforms

    Video remains the most engaging content format, with short-form videos like Reels, TikToks, and YouTube Shorts capturing attention quickly. Longer educational videos on YouTube can establish authority in your niche and provide value to your audience. Make video content a core part of your strategy in 2024—it’s a surefire way to increase reach and engagement across channels. Check out video production services here if you need a helping hand. From script to screen, we can tell your brand story with video that can thrive on all platforms.

    4. Leverage Automation for Efficiency

    Automation tools are a game-changer for small business owners. Automate repetitive tasks such as email follow-ups, social media scheduling, and ad bidding to save time and maintain consistent communication with your audience. By freeing up your team’s time, you can focus more on strategic activities that drive growth… or maximise your time doing more of what you enjoy.

    5. Invest in a Fast, User-Centric Website

    A slow or clunky website can turn potential customers away in seconds. In 2025, make website speed and user experience (UX) a top priority. Ensure that your website loads quickly, offers intuitive navigation, and delivers a seamless mobile experience. A fast, user-centric site not only improves engagement but also positively impacts your search engine rankings. We love creating intuitive, easy-to-use websites that look great and are sustainable, built on WordPress or WebFlow using the latest sustainable design practices. At Marzipan, we craft bespoke websites to make your business stand out from the mundane, like a breath of fresh salty air on a summer’s day. 

    6. Bonus Point

    Don’t be afraid to learn from the professionals. There are literally thousands of eBooks, podcasts, and videos online that will teach you how to grow your digital content creation above and beyond where you are now. Don’t be afraid to sign up, download and devour as many of these as you can. A great place to start could be our latest eBook; Master the Instagram Strategies We Use to Skyrocket Client Success. We’re removing the curtain to reveal 12 killer Instagram strategies to help you grow your social media community and master the algorithms. Yours for the price of a coffee download the brand-new ebook here ; )


    Ready to Smash Your Online Goals?

    If you’re looking to drive real results and elevate your digital strategy in 2025, we can help! 🚀

    We’d love to help you create a digital presence as powerful as your purpose and help you smash your online goals for the year ahead. We can help build sustainable websites, conduct killer social media campaigns and produce engaging video content for people, brands and places. Better for your bottom line, kinder to our planet. Get in touch with us today and together let’s explore how these strategies can be tailored to your business and turn your online goals into reality. Contact Us

  • The Complete Guide to Web Design in Sydney:

    The Complete Guide to Web Design in Sydney:

    What You Need to Know

    At the risk of stating the obvious, having a well-designed website is no longer a luxury; it’s a necessity. Sydney businesses, large and small, are recognising the importance of a website that not only looks good but also functions flawlessly. But with so many options available, how do you navigate the web design landscape in a city as dynamic as Sydney? In this local guide we’ll take you through everything you need to know about web design in Sydney – from emerging trends to choosing the right designer for your needs.

    Why Web Design Matters for Sydney Businesses

    Sydney is home to a diverse range of industries, from finance and real estate to hospitality and retail. Each sector has its own unique needs when it comes to web design, but one thing remains constant: your website is often the first point of contact for potential clients or customers. It’s not just about aesthetics. A well-designed site should communicate your brand’s values, provide seamless user experiences, and encourage visitors to take action, whether that’s making a purchase, booking a service, or signing up for more information.

    In a city as competitive as Sydney, standing out from the crowd is crucial. Your website is a tool to communicate directly with your audience, reflect your brand’s personality, and build credibility. But it’s also more than just a digital brochure – it needs to be fast, responsive, and optimised for search engines to ensure that your customers find you easily. You may be a local business but the right web site can help place you on a global stage.

    Current Trends in Sydney’s Web Design Scene

    Web design trends are constantly evolving, and Sydney’s digital landscape is no exception. One of the most significant shifts in recent years is the focus on mobile-first design. With more than half of web traffic now coming from mobile devices, businesses must ensure their sites look and function beautifully on smaller screens. Responsive design is no longer a ‘nice-to-have’ – it’s essential.

    Another trend gaining traction is sustainability in web design. As more businesses, particularly in Sydney, become aware of their environmental footprint, there’s growing interest in creating energy-efficient websites. This can involve using lighter code, optimising images, or hosting with carbon-neutral providers. Not only is sustainable web design good for the planet, but it can also lead to faster loading times and improved user experience, both of which are favoured by search engines like Google.

    Minimalist design is also on the rise, particularly among Sydney’s tech startups and creative agencies. The idea is simple: less clutter means a more straightforward user journey, where the focus is placed on what truly matters – your core message or product. Clean, open layouts with plenty of space help users navigate with ease, while typography and colour choices take centre stage to convey a brand’s identity.

    Choosing the Right Web Designer in Sydney

    Selecting a web designer is one of the most important decisions you’ll make for your business. In Sydney, you’re spoiled for choice, but not all web designers are created equal. It’s essential to look beyond the surface and dig deeper into a designer’s portfolio, approach, and technical expertise.

    Start by considering your business’s specific needs. Do you require a custom design that sets you apart from competitors, or are you looking for a more budget-friendly template solution? For small businesses or start-ups, budget may be a driving factor, but it’s crucial not to cut corners when it comes to functionality and user experience. A great web designer will strike the right balance between aesthetics and practicality, ensuring your site looks professional without sacrificing usability.

    Next, think about whether the designer or agency has local expertise. A Sydney-based web designer will be familiar with the local market, trends, and user preferences. They’ll have insights into how Sydney audiences interact online, allowing them to create designs that resonate. Local designers also understand the importance of SEO (Search Engine Optimisation) for Sydney-based businesses, ensuring that your website is optimised to rank well for relevant local searches.

    Another key factor is the designer’s technical skillset. If your site is built on WordPress – as many Sydney sites are – ensure the designer has a deep understanding of the platform. They should be able to customise themes, optimise performance, and integrate essential plugins without relying on heavy coding that could slow your site down. Moreover, they should stay up-to-date with the latest web standards and security practices to ensure your site remains functional and safe.

    The Role of Local Knowledge in Web Design

    Sydney is a city of diverse neighbourhoods, each with its own unique character. The way a restaurant in Surry Hills presents itself online will differ from how a finance firm in the CBD does. Local knowledge is invaluable in tailoring your web design to suit your target audience. A designer with experience working in Sydney will understand the subtleties of communicating with your specific demographic – whether it’s young professionals, families, or retirees.

    …and yes, we may be based in the Bondi Bubble but we’ve traveled extensively, sometimes even heading OTB! ; )

    Local web designers are also better equipped to handle SEO for Sydney businesses. Search engine optimisation is an ongoing process, and having someone who understands the intricacies of Sydney’s business landscape will give you a competitive edge. By targeting local keywords like “web design Sydney” or “Sydney digital agency,” you increase the likelihood of ranking higher in local search results, bringing more traffic – and potential customers – to your site.

    Why Marzipan is Your Ideal Partner for Web Design in Sydney

     

    At Marzipan, we understand the unique needs of Sydney businesses. With over a decade of experience in WordPress and sustainable web design, we’ve worked with a range of clients across various industries, helping them craft beautiful, functional websites that reflect their brand identity. We pride ourselves on being more than just web designers – we’re your partners in building an online presence that works for you.

    Our approach is simple: we listen, we collaborate, and we create. Whether you’re a local café in Newtown or an ASX-listed financial firm in the City, we take the time to understand your goals and your audience. From the initial concept to the final launch, we’ll be there every step of the way to ensure your website not only looks good but performs brilliantly too.

    And because we’re committed to sustainability, we take great care in building websites that are environmentally friendly. By focusing on efficient design and carbon-neutral hosting, we help our clients reduce their digital footprint while still delivering an exceptional user experience. Helping you shine even brighter online.

    Web design in Sydney is more than just a visual exercise – it’s about creating an online experience that captures your brand and engages your audience. By staying ahead of trends, choosing the right designer, and focusing on local expertise, you can ensure your website stands out in a crowded marketplace. At Marzipan, we’re here to help you every step of the way, crafting bespoke websites that not only look stunning but deliver real results for your business.

     If you’re thinking about your own website and wondering where it can improve, get in touch today for a free consultation and together let’s make the web a brighter place to be.

    affordable web deign sydney - digital content creators
  • Winter Reading Recommendations

    Winter Reading Recommendations

    It’s rare we get to sit down and enjoy a good book or two these days. We’re not going to lie, parenthood and running a business online are quite demanding. But in the hustle and bustle of our daily lives, it’s super important to carve out some time to dive into a good book. 

    I always prefer physical books to get away from a screen. I love the smell, touch and feel of a book and are lucky enough to have the legendary bookstore, Gerturde and Alic on my doorstep.  There’s been some great reads this winter and wanted to share some captivating reads that span genres from thrilling crime fiction to insightful self-improvement and eye-opening examinations of health in modern society. Here’s a look at what’s on my reading list:

    1. Dragon’s Back by AC Edwards

    “A woman wants her errant husband tracked, an undocumented Cambodian girl is found dead, the city’s two biggest criminal societies vie for power, a loan shark wants his money back, and a corrupt cop is pulling strings from the shadows. It’s just another day in Hong Kong.”

     

    AC Edwards is a local Aussie author and in this book he takes us on a gritty journey through the underbelly of Hong Kong in “Dragon’s Back.” This crime thriller weaves a complex narrative filled with suspense, intrigue, and multifaceted characters. The vivid portrayal of Hong Kong’s dark side keeps us on the edge of our seats, making it a hard book to put down. Edwards’ ability to intertwine multiple storylines seamlessly is a testament to his mastery of the genre.

    2. Steven Bartlett – Diary of a CEO

    “Covers the fundamental laws that will ensure excellence. They are rooted in psychology and behavioral science, are based on the wisdom of tens of thousands of people I’ve surveyed across every continent and age group, and of course, drawn from the conversations I’ve had on my chart-topping podcast with the world’s most successful people.”

     

    Steven Bartlett, the mastermind behind the wildly popular “Diary of a CEO” podcast, shares his profound insights on achieving excellence in this compelling read. Bartlett delves into the psychological and behavioural science principles that underpin success. Drawing from extensive surveys and conversations with top achievers worldwide, this book offers practical advice and timeless wisdom. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, a professional, or someone striving for personal growth, Bartlett’s insights are both inspiring and actionable.

    3. Gabor Maté – The Myth of Normal: Trauma, Illness & Healing in a Toxic Culture

    “A book that changes everything – from the legendary Dr. Gabor Maté. ‘It all starts with waking up… to what our bodies are expressing and our minds are suppressing.’”

    In “The Myth of Normal,” Dr. Gabor Maté challenges our understanding of health and illness in modern Western society. With alarming statistics highlighting the rise in mental illness and chronic diseases, Maté urges us to reconsider what we deem ‘normal’ in terms of health. His book emphasises the profound connection between trauma, chronic illness, and societal norms, urging us to become more attuned to our bodies and minds. Covering ADHD, childhood trauma and more, Maté’s blend of personal anecdotes, scientific research, and compassionate storytelling makes this book a transformative read for anyone interested in holistic health and healing.


    Bonus tip you can see Gabor in person, in Sydney in 2025… Can not wait for this.

    So whether you’re looking for this summers best thriller book, actionable self-improvement tips for you and your business, or a profound exploration of health, these titles are sure to captivate and inspire. Happy reading!

  • The Future of Web Design

    The Future of Web Design

    Our Favourite Sustainability Trends to Watch

    Our sustainable web design business strategy is directly aligned to our favourite of the United Nations Goals (UNSDG’s). Goals that we feel we can directly influence in a positive way for a better world. We continue to invest in sustainable web design and digital marketing for our clients and are constantly seeking out innovative ways to meet our sustainability goals online. As the digital landscape evolves, and the environmental pressure increases, so does the importance of sustainable web design.

    We see it as a win-win for users, brands and ultimately the planet. Sounds a bit far-fetched right now but soon enough the focus will be on any ways we can help reduce emissions. We’re hoping it will be as commonplace as recycling your plastics or taking a keep with you on your morning coffee walk. 

    This article explores the key sustainability trends shaping the future of web design, providing insights into eco-friendly technologies, AI and automation, green certifications, user-centric sustainable design, and corporate social responsibility.

    Planet-Friendly Technologies

    Emerging technologies play a pivotal role in advancing sustainable web design. One of the most significant developments is the increased use of renewable energy sources to power websites. Green hosting providers, such as those powered by wind or solar energy, are becoming more prevalent, offering businesses a way to reduce their carbon footprint. We’re using CrazyDomains Currently due to their sustainable web hosting.

    Efficient data centres are another critical component. Traditional data centres consume massive amounts of energy, but innovations in cooling and energy management are making them more sustainable. For instance, data centres that use natural cooling methods or advanced energy-efficient hardware can significantly lower energy consumption.

    AI and Automation

    Artificial Intelligence (AI) and automation are transforming how we approach web performance and sustainability. AI algorithms can optimise websites for speed and efficiency by analysing data and making real-time adjustments. This leads to faster load times and reduced energy use, as servers can be scaled dynamically based on demand.

    Automation tools further enhance sustainable practices. Automated testing and deployment pipelines can ensure that code is optimised for performance and sustainability before it goes live. These tools help maintain high standards of efficiency and reduce the likelihood of deploying resource-intensive features.

    Green Certifications and Standards

    Adhering to green certifications and standards is becoming increasingly important for businesses committed to sustainability. Certifications like the Green Web Foundation provide benchmarks for eco-friendly practices in web design and hosting. These certifications not only validate a company’s commitment to sustainability but also appeal to environmentally conscious consumers.

    Standards ensure that businesses maintain best practices in sustainable web design. They provide guidelines for reducing energy consumption, optimizing performance, and using renewable resources. By adhering to these standards, companies can achieve greater transparency and accountability in their sustainability efforts.

    Sustainable UX/UI Design

    User-centric design is at the heart of sustainability. Trends in sustainable UX/UI design focus on creating seamless, efficient user experiences while minimising resource use. This includes optimising images and videos, simplifying navigation, and reducing the number of server requests.

    The importance of user experience in sustainability cannot be overstated. A well-designed, efficient website not only consumes fewer resources but also enhances user satisfaction and retention. By prioritising sustainability in UX/UI design, businesses can create websites that are both eco-friendly and user-friendly.

    Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR)

    Integrating Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) into web design strategies is a powerful way to demonstrate a commitment to sustainability. CSR initiatives can include using sustainable materials, reducing energy consumption, and supporting environmental causes through business practices.

    Several brands are leading the way in sustainability through innovative web design. For example, companies like Patagonia and IKEA have incorporated sustainable practices into their digital presence, from using renewable energy for hosting to creating efficient, minimalistic website designs.

    Case Studies and Predictions

    Looking to the future, several trends are set to shape the sustainable web design landscape. Predictions include the increased use of AI and machine learning to optimise performance, greater adoption of renewable energy sources, and more widespread implementation of green certifications.

    Case studies of innovative sustainable web projects provide valuable insights. For instance, the redesign of the BBC’s website focused on reducing energy consumption through efficient coding practices and optimising content delivery. These projects demonstrate the tangible benefits of sustainable web design, including lower energy costs and improved user experiences.

    As the demand for sustainable practices continues to grow, the future of web design will be increasingly defined by eco-friendly technologies, AI and automation, green certifications, sustainable UX/UI design, and CSR. By staying ahead of these trends, businesses can not only reduce their environmental impact but also enhance their brand reputation and operational efficiency.

    Call to Arms 🌱

    Are you ready to innovate and lead in sustainable web design? Contact us today for a consultation and start your journey toward a more sustainable future.

  • Marzipan: New Logo Same Friendly Service

    Marzipan: New Logo Same Friendly Service

    Marzipan Media - digital content creators - web design agency sydney, bondi
    Marzipan Media, your favourite digital marketing agency known for innovative and human-centric approaches, are excited to announce its rebrand to simply “Marzipan.” This change reflects our evolving identity and commitment to helping our clients shine online, inspired by our deep love for the ocean.

    A Fresh Look with Natural Tones

    Our new logo and visual identity incorporate earthy, natural tones, drawing inspiration from some of our favourite brands, like Ottway Label, and the creative design approaches of The Morris Project. This shift is not just about aesthetics; it’s about a deeper commitment to sustainability and energy efficiency in digital design. It offers a childlike simplicity and playfulness that we hope is reflected in our work. We approached Sculpt Design to get onboard and reimagine our logo design from an outside perspective and love the work that they created for us.

    Sustainable Web Design

    At Marzipan, we believe that every aspect of our work should reflect our commitment to sustainability. Our new colour palette was chosen with environmental impact in mind. By moving away from energy-intensive pure-white backgrounds and embracing a low-carbon palette, we aim to make a positive difference, especially across the growing number of OLED devices.

    Balancing Efficiency with User Experience

    Choosing the right colours is just one element of designing a sustainable website or digital product. The benefits of energy efficiency must be carefully balanced with our brand’s messaging and the user experience. Our new design maintains this balance, ensuring that our digital content creations built for our clients remain impactful and engaging, helping them shine online, while being environmentally responsible. It’s also a shorter URL which we love.

    This was partly inspired by a move from an old colleague at Sydney Living Museums who pushed for the abbreviated SLM.is url. A move that was potentially misunderstood internally at the time but paid dividends. The move has it’s own SEO benefits as well as some challenges which we’ll talk about in a later post. 

    Commitment to Excellence

    While our name and look have evolved, our core mission remains unchanged. Marzipan continues to be dedicated to helping our clients shine online. Our team of experts leverages cutting-edge digital marketing strategies, personalised to each client’s needs, to drive engagement, growth, and success.

    About Marzipan

    Marzipan is a digital marketing agency from Bondi specialising in innovative solutions that help businesses thrive online. From SEO and content marketing to social media and web design, we offer a full suite of digital content services designed to elevate our clients’ digital presence and shine online.

    Marzipan Media Agency - digital content creators sydney
    Marzipan Media Sydney Digital content Agency
    Marzipan Media - digital content creators - sustainable web design sydney AI powered SEO
  • Businesses stop playing and start using ChatGPT – AFR

    Businesses stop playing and start using ChatGPT – AFR

    Australian chief executives have revealed programs under way to incorporate generative artificial intelligence, through ChatGPT, into working practices, with marketing work, computer coding and snappy last-minute presentations already passing the test at some big-name companies.

    Marzipan co-founder and chief digital content creator, Ben Adams, talked to the AFR about the ways in which we’re using the new AI Technology to help with web design, digital marketing and content creation.

    Read all about it here:

  • What’s New at Marzipan Media this month

    What’s New at Marzipan Media this month

    Well, it’s been a weird little while for everyone but we’re proud to say we’ve been soldiering on in the face of it. This digital agency will not be beat : ) 

    The pandemic provided a great opportunity for The Royal Botanic Garden, Sydney to update some of its critical information architecture. We helped them install and set up Salesforce to create a single point of reference for their customer records management. The project saw us create custom APIs to connect their Kentico website, Campaign Monitor and Wi-fi landing pages into Salesforce.  We washed and cleaned close to half a million customer records to ensure that when they’re ready to switch on the CRM they’re starting with the best possible data sets. 

    Furthermore their communications will be looking better than ever with a fresh suite of email templates that have been designed to engage their audiences and prompt action. Keep an eye out for the newly design emails in your inbox today.  Just another example of our ongoing relationship with the Garden’s. One of our most loved spaces in Sydney.

    See some of the other digital content we’ve created here.

    Marzipan- Media SydneyBrandContentCreators

    Search Engine Optimisation

    We’re excited to welcome the Nepean Health Hub on as our newest SEO customer. The newly launched website is built in WordPress which we love to work with. We’ll be applying our tried and tested white hat techniques to ensure the site ranks for its chosen keywords. We’re conducting a full SEO review and then executing a four week run of optimisation and link building. This will lay the foundation to our upcoming Adwords campaign that launches in a few weeks.

    Having a site that has been fully optimised for search engines will ensure the cost per click campaign is priced low and quality scores are high. Meaning their SEM campaign will provide more results for their budget.  

    You can visit the Nepean Health Hub here. 

    Swarovski Crystal Lovers

    Last month we launched the Crystal Lovers mini site for Swarovski.  The site is full of interactive html games designed to educate and entertain. The Crystal range is based on the Aussie outback and our games and the 3D world they inhabit have been designed to reflect that. Have a play here: Swarovskicrystallovers.com.au

  • How we find our calm

    How we find our calm

    Our favourite meditation apps

    Running a small business can be a lot of work. Managing staff, finding new clients, keeping on top of the admin, the socials, the bills. There’s a lot going on and not all of it fun. Add in a global pandemic, a splash of isolation and a few nationwide shut downs and it’s a wonder any of us ever get anything done ever! 

    When Marzipan Media started we were a team of two, relying on an army of freelancers, friends and peers to make it work.  Our personal and working lives have altered dramatically in the last twelve months but one thing has remained: For me at least, it’s been my meditation practice. 

    I started meditating for personal reasons using various apps and methods and it seemed that it would never cross over into my work life. It felt right posting about the best three apps to help manage your social media campaigns, or recommending top kanban tools to better prioritise your work flows but meditation seemed seperate. A past time at best, and, not the type of thing that would help with work. Nowadays, as my practise deepens I realise the two are inseparable. 

    Meditation helps me stay calm and focused throughout the work day. To gain a deeper patience with my my clients, reduce anxiety and those nagging thoughts of self doubt. These skills ultimately help me deliver a greater service to our beloved clients and strengthen our working relationships.

    Many of our customers are repeat customers who come to Marzipan for the same events and projects year on year. 

    There are less fires, less issues and more productivity, allowing us to create strong digital content refined online marketing strategies free from the noise of day to day life. For that I’m truely grateful. 

    So it seems right, as we head into October and a month of mental health awareness to give you my top three suggestions for mediation apps.  

    It began with Headspace

    Headspace is a great meditation app for beginners.

    Created by Andy Puddicombe who is a former monk and mindfulness expert. An accomplished presenter and writer, Andy is the voice of all things Headspace. 

    The app has tutorials, and works in packs of ten that will guide you through a range of meditation techniques including visualisation, breath work and noting to help with a certain aspect of your life such as stress, anxiety, relationships or more. This year they even rolled out new features including stretching and sports into the app.   Each of the meditations can be practised in sittings of 3, 5, 10, 15 and 20 minutes.

    It’s a great all rounder but if you’re not into Andy’s voice it can become a bit repetitive.  It can also feel a bit cute sometimes which while welcoming at first, can sometimes diminish the great work that’s gone into the teachings.  They do have a beautiful brand and the app is simple to use and to the point. 

    Headspace app costs around $90AUD for a year but well worth it. Try the free trial and see how you go first. 

    Insight Timer

    Insight Timer publish the world’s largest collection of free guided meditations, with over 60,000 titles. If the simplicity of Headspace is one, app, one voice, then Insight Timer turns this premise upside down. 

    There’s a meditation for every emotion, every moment, every feeling you might have. It can be a little overwhelming at first but the app has great features and allows you to follow, save and bookmark meditations as you go. I highly recommend Sarah Blondin, Dora Kamau and David Ji as an ideal place to start but they also have heavyweights such as Tara Brach and Russell Brand.

    Many of the meditations are free and they’re backed up with music, talks and soundscapes to help you relax or sleep.  It’s a formidable app and one I recommend to anyone who’ll listen.

    Vedic Meditation

    Ok this one wins because there’s no app included. For twenty minutes you can put down your phone, not worry about internet, headphones, or the rest of the world. Learning Vedic meditation has shifted my mindset and allowed me to really be comfortable in the space that exists between thoughts and feelings.

    There are many people teaching Vedic meditation and often they offer free trial classes so you can experience it. Like many of the great free meditation apps the exist, it coms down to finding a voice and a style that suits your needs so don’t be afraid to try a few. 

    Have questions? Drop us a line we’re always happy to talk : ) 

     

  • Three tips to help create beautiful digital content

    Three tips to help create beautiful digital content

    Marzipan Media - digital content creators agency sydney

    As digital content creators we know the pit falls of creating beautiful content for the sake of it. Great content comes from great understanding of your audiences and the challenges they face. 

    But it takes time, research, and a lot of effort.

    The three tips below can help you create digital content but they’re just the tip of the iceberg.  

    1. Understand your Audience

    Most of us marketers believe we have a clear understanding of our audiences. But how often do we really put our theories to the test. Quite often we discover a gap in  understanding from the perceived need to the actual one, that can result in sending the right message to the wrong people. 

    Not only does this result in a poor return but it can also damage the brand reputation. When we start with a new brand or business, regardless of the type of content we are creating, we’ll always ask the following questions: 

    • What problems do your potential customers have?
    • What kinds of content do they really crave?
    • Why are they hesitating to buy your products and services?
    • What are they telling your sales team?
    • What are they saying about your business on social media?

    By demonstrating you can solve customer problems you’ll start creating content that is both relevant and useful, not only engage your audiences’ head, but also their heart. Creating emotional connections between your brand and audience will build a longer lasting community. Ultimately your digital content should appeal to the wants and desires of humans not algorithms.

    2. Understand your Why

    This is crucial as you go into creator mode. What are trying to achieve with this particular slice of digital content?

    Once you know what you want to achieve with your content, it’s much easier to create content formats and topics that support your goals. You might focus on one or two goals, such as:

    • generating new leads for your business
    • selling a new product category 
    • building customer engagement 
    • looking for cross promotional opportunities
    • boosting your brand awareness online

    Once you’re clear  on your why you’ll have a better idea as to the type of digital content you’re looking to create. Are you going to need a new website, blog post or video to help you reach your objective or can a new email, sign up form or questionnaire work just as well? 

    3. Be Authentic

    Your brand, your tone of voice, your company. They’re exclusive to you. It’s ok to borrow ideas but you have to make them your own based on your customers needs. Straight up lifting or copying content from your peers could damage your SEO and reputation.

    Creating unique digital content in such a saturated world can be a tricky business but understanding your whys and your audiences will help massively.

    Sharing ideas you’re passionate about and that are relevant to your audience will create the magic.

    Audiences are more savvy than ever and can spot authenticity, or lack thereof a mile away.  Land on the right side of the content creation debate and you’ll boost your credibility while winning hearts and minds of your audiences. 

    Useful links

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